Central United Methodist Church choir performs Backstreet Boys song

The choir of Central United Methodist Church in Fayetteville, Arkansas, gained social media attention after performing a choral arrangement of the Backstreet Boys' 1999 hit “I Want It That Way” during a worship service on October 11, 2026.

According to the church, the performance was part of a sermon series focused on generational distinctions. The Rev. Virginia Brown, the church's Wesley director and college pastor, described the song as a “millennial nostalgia song.” Senior pastor Rev. Jennie Williams noted that the musical choice was intended to follow the example of Jesus Christ by being relatable.

Footage of the performance went viral on X after being shared by the account Protestia, drawing mixed reactions from users, including criticism regarding the direction of mainline Methodist churches.